A license is proof of ownership and that a dog has been vaccinated against rabies. Detroit's 2016 license is shaped like a bone and each license bears a unique identification number that shows your dog is registered to you.

Licenses will not be issued if there are fewer than 31 days until the rabies vaccine expires. You will need to get your dog currently vaccinated prior to applying for a license. A rabies vaccine MUST be given by a veterinarian. Licenses are not transferable between individuals or dogs. A copy of the rabies certificate bearing the manufacturer, serial number, date the animal was vaccinated, veterinarian's signature and license number must be received prior to a license tag being issued. The license tag will be mailed to the mailing address you provide.

You will need proof that your dog is currently vaccinated against rabies prior to applying for a license online. A rabies vaccine mustbe given by a licensed veterinarian and dogs must be re-vaccinated each year or every three years depending on the vaccine. A copy of the rabies certificate bearing the manufacturer serial number, date the animal was vaccinated, veterinarian's signature and license number must be received prior to a license tag being issued. You will be prompted to provide a photo format of this certificate (a .jpg, .png, .tiff, or a .bmp file) in order to receive a license.